“Into every life a little rain must fall…” But that doesn’t mean we have to like it!
This Yellow-crowned Night Heron was hanging out over the swamp in Brazos Bend State Park. He was in plain sight of the boardwalk. He looked miserable, wet, and sad. His response was perfectly appropriate given that the rain had been falling all day and his feathers were in no shape to fly. Like him, I find great meaning in moments such as these. They give me the time I need to look within. I am able to suspend my usual extroverted personality and allow the introvert a little time to come out and play.
Unfortunately, some folks tries to take this gloom time away by making me look for the rainbow. There are days when life does not go the way I had hoped. It makes me sad, depressed, and frustrated. These are powerful emotions that overwhelm my joy and optimism. They settle in and cause me to look within. I have to do my best to ride out the storm. I really do not need cheering up or to be reminded that the storm with pass. These moments have become very important to me and I resent someone trying to take them from me because they are uncomfortable with my “rainy attitude.”
In a few days, Marlene and I will be heading West to explore parts of Texas that we love. Along the way we will be busy with hiking and taking pictures and all sorts of busy-ness. Also, I will spend some down time re-creating rather than recreating. I will spend time looking at the stars for no reason other than that they are there. I hope to spend time feeling the dry West Texas air as it heals and warms the soul. I fully intend on sitting and watching a sunset or two with my best friend and be reminded that the universe is still spinning and all is well! And if we have a thunderstorm or two, I hope to ride them out as the noble Night Heron.
Yes, the rain my irritate me and interfere with my schedule. It may hide the rainbows behind dark clouds. But there are lessons to be learned and I hope to have the mindful presence to unwrap those gifts.
Blessings,
Bob